THE Spanish are very keen on visiting Liverpool for one particular reason.
It’s called the “Torres effect” as Spain’s answer to David Beckham brings planeloads of his countrymen to the city.
Having decided to see a match starring their hero Fernando, the Spaniards often decide to make a weekend of it and book a short-break package.
All music to the ears of Liverpool John Lennon Airport, England’s fourth-biggest regional airport, which has inbound plane seats to fill, as well as outbound.
JLA has become one of the top 10 busiest airports in the UK for the first time in its history.
This is a far cry from its position of 20th in 1995 and 14th just 10 years ago, in 2000.
It was also one of two airports to experience growth in January, 2010, with an 8% year-on-year increase.
This is the third consecutive month that Liverpool has seen year-on-year monthly passenger growth, with 8% and 7% increases in November and December respectively.
However, the recession caused an 18- month decline in passenger throughput prior to this.
While Ireland remains the biggest overseas visitor market into JLA, France and Italy are both growing through cost-effective direct flights from around these countries.
Although Liverpool’s main bait is The Beatles, it is serviced by a complete package of facilities for visitors.
“We have an infrastructure to take care of visitors like never before,” said Neil Pakey, Peel Airports Liverpool deputy chief executive officer.
“The boom in hotels means we can offer everything from budget to four-star accommodation.
“Capital of Culture 2008 was the trigger for us. The city’s credibility changed overnight, and that positive image stayed.
“What is not known is how much the Liverpool carriers backed the bid, as they knew it would be so valuable to them.
“Glasgow is still talking about having been City of Culture 20 years ago – that’s how long the effect can last.
“When we talk to new carriers, we sell the region as well as the airport.
“Airlines are more internationally mobile, and national airlines no longer control their market.
“Liverpool is an easy sell these days with the history, culture, music, sport, Arena and Liverpool One.
